SLOHS teachers Zack Roper, Seamus Perry, and Greg Ross pause for a picture on Italy Pass in the Eastern Sierras last summer. Photo courtesy of SLOHS English teacher Scott Nairne.
When life in modern society becomes overwhelming, many seek an escape in the wilderness.
Now that summer is here, San Luis Obispo students, graduates, and staff have ample time to get out and backpack. SLO is close to many world class backpacking locations begging to be explored this summer. Backpackers can explore coastal peaks in Big Sur, remote mountain lakes in the Sierra Nevadas, and so much more.
“It seems like it’s a big unknown, but, you’re gonna be fine if you don’t do something that’s way above your skill level,” said 2026 graduate and experienced backpacker Mason Horstman.
According to 2026 SLOHS graduate and backpacker Gabe Jantos, it’s smart to start somewhere close for beginners. He recommends Vicente Flats up in Big Sur.
“It’s got a lot of water, a lot of shade, it’s really pretty, and it’s not that long of a hike,” said Jantos.
Backpackers should make sure they have ten essentials covered when going out in the wilderness: navigation, a headlamp, sun protection, first aid, a knife, fire, shelter, food, water, and clothes.
Once backpackers start to feel comfortable enough to venture out further, there are tons of options for exploration around the state and the country.
“For the last three years, I’ve been doing summer backpacking trips up in the eastern Sierras,” said teacher and outdoors enthusiast Zach Roper. “A lot of times we’ll go up through Bishop, and then there’s lots of trails that you can start from that side.”
Our modern lives can be overwhelming and unfulfilling at times, with technology, deadlines, and bright lights and loud sounds. For this reason, getting out into the wilderness can be a valuable way to reset.
“Once you get out into nature and you’re truly away from Wi-Fi and city lights, you realize just how big it is, how beautiful it is. You sit underneath and you can see all the stars that you’ve missed and it really puts into perspective all of your problems,” said Roper.
For thrill seekers, tree huggers, and the backpacking-curious, backpacking is a great option this summer.
Sources: rei.com
